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Ready to plan the perfect five days in Corfu? Let us show you how!
Corfu is one of Greece’s most stunning islands, with a mix of golden beaches, charming villages, historic sites, and mouthwatering food. But with so much to see and do, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s where this itinerary comes in!
After exploring Corfu from coast to coast, we’ve crafted the ideal plan to help you experience the very best of the island, without feeling rushed. From island-hopping cruises to hidden beach gems and foodie favorites, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Corfu. Let’s get to the good stuff!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Corfu was this full-day sailing trip! We loved sailing around Greece’s stunning islands, and it was even on a traditional wooden boat, which was so unique.
Day 1
Morning – Explore Old Town with a private guide
Trying to see the best of Corfu on your own can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re short on time and every guidebook points in a different direction. That’s why we kicked off our five-day trip with this private sightseeing tour, and we can’t imagine a better way to get to know the island.
Pickup is flexible, but we recommend starting around 9 am. You’ll wrap up around 1 pm with a solid sense of the island’s layout, history, and highlights, and still have the entire afternoon to relax or explore on your own.
The tour begins at the stunning Achilleion Palace, once the retreat of Empress Elisabeth of Austria (aka Princess Sissi). Inside, we walked through grand halls filled with her personal treasures and admired statues of Achilles standing guard over lush palace gardens.
Next up was Paleokastritsa, one of Corfu’s most scenic villages. You can take a boat to the caves, visit the clifftop monastery, or swim in the emerald-green bays. It’s all picture-perfect!
Finally, we ended in Corfu Town, wandering through the UNESCO-listed Old Town and soaking up centuries of history in places like the Old Fortress and the Palace of St. Michael and St. George. It was an unforgettable way to see Corfu’s highlights without feeling rushed!
There are lots of tour options, but the half-day version with a guide was just right—informative, flexible, and fun. We loved every second of it, and judging by the glowing five-star reviews here, so does everyone else!
For a smooth and stress-free intro to Corfu, book this tour here!
Afternoon – Enjoy the beach
After a morning of sightseeing and soaking up Corfu’s history, it’s time to shift into full vacation mode. Since the tour drops you off at your hotel, we recommend grabbing lunch nearby and then heading out to the island’s northeast coast for some of Corfu’s best beaches.
Sure, there are beaches right outside Corfu Town, but they tend to be busier and less scenic. Instead, take the one-hour drive north to find quieter stretches of coast with clear water and dramatic landscapes. You’ll have plenty of time to explore other beaches later in the trip, but this is a great place to start!
- Barbati Beach (45–60 minutes from Corfu Town) – A long, pebbled beach with deep blue water and views of the Albanian coast across the channel. It’s well-equipped with sunbeds, beach bars, and tavernas, making it a convenient and relaxed option for a half-day outing.
- Agni Beach (1 hour from Corfu Town) – Tucked away down a winding coastal road, Agni is smaller and quieter, with crystal-clear water perfect for swimming. It’s also known for its excellent beachfront tavernas—worth staying for an early dinner if you’re not in a rush.
- Nissaki Beach (50 minutes from Corfu Town) – This tiny cove is great for snorkeling thanks to its calm, clear waters and rocky shoreline. It’s less developed than Barbati, which gives it a more peaceful, hidden-gem vibe.
- Kalami Beach (1 hour from Corfu Town) – Famous for being home to the White House, where author Lawrence Durrell once lived, Kalami combines literary charm with laid-back beach vibes. It’s a lovely place to unwind and take a dip with a view!
Evening – Enjoy while you’re out!
There’s no need to rush back to town after your beach afternoon—some of the best coastal restaurants are right where you are. We kept things simple and stayed in the area, soaking up the warm evening air and letting the day unwind naturally.
While you won’t get the island’s best sunset views on this side of Corfu, the peaceful seaside atmosphere more than makes up for it. We lingered at the beach until the crowds thinned out, then made our way to Nikolas Traditional Taverna Corfu. It was everything we hoped for after a laid-back beach day: casual, welcoming, and serving some of the best grilled octopus we’ve ever had!
The taverna sits right on the water, and it’s only a short drive from wherever you end up—just 11 minutes from Nissaki and 13 from Kalami. With the sound of waves in the background and a cold carafe on the table, it was the perfect end to our first full day on the island.
Related Read: Continuing your Greece travels? Check out our ideal 3-day Milos itinerary for more fun!
Day 2
Enjoy a full-day cruise on a classic wooden boat
There’s something about being out on the water in Greece that just feels right, and sailing around Corfu on a traditional wooden kaiki was easily one of the most memorable days of our trip. This 6.5-hour cruise combined swim stops, hidden beaches, local history, and a boatload of good vibes.
Heads up—there aren’t any breakfast spots near the departure point, so grab something near your hotel before heading out. The boat leaves at 10 am sharp, and you’ll want to arrive early to check in and secure a good seat.
Once we were on the water, our first stop was Agios Stefanos Beach, which is only accessible by boat. With no crowds in sight and impossibly clear water, it felt like we’d found our own little slice of paradise. We swam, snorkeled, and lounged on the pebbled shore without a care in the world.
Back on board, we enjoyed a delicious barbecue lunch with Greek salads and drinks, then cruised to Peristeres Lighthouse, a historic island landmark where we explored the grounds and learned a bit about Corfu’s nautical past. It was surprisingly very cool!
The tour wrapped up around 4:30 pm, giving us plenty of time to head back to our hotel to refresh and recharge before dinner.
Between the traditional boat, friendly crew, and endless turquoise water, this cruise had everything we wanted. We’d book it again in a heartbeat, and it looks like we aren’t the only ones. Read HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here to see why this is a top-rated tour!
Book our favorite Corfu tour here and enjoy FREE cancellation!
Dinner – To Tsipouradiko
After a full day of swimming, sailing, and sun, head back to your hotel for a quick refresh before making your way into Corfu’s Old Town for dinner. The walkable cobblestone lanes come alive in the evening, with buzzing tavernas, warm lighting, and that unmistakable Greek charm, and To Tsipouradiko ended up being one of our favorite dinner spots.
Tucked just off the main thoroughfare, this cozy little place strikes the perfect balance between casual and authentic. The menu is built around meze-style dishes, which means you’ll want to order a few plates to share—think grilled halloumi, dolma, spicy sausage, fresh octopus, and crispy zucchini fritters.
The staff were friendly, the food came out fast, and the laid-back, local vibe made it feel like we’d stumbled upon a hidden gem, even though it’s just a short walk from the heart of Old Town. Whether you’re craving something light or planning to feast, To Tsipouradiko is the kind of place you’ll want to linger at a little longer.
Evening – Explore Old Town
Corfu’s Old Town has a completely different vibe at night, and honestly, we loved it even more after dark. The narrow alleys glow under the soft light of hanging lanterns, and there’s something magical about wandering past shuttered shops, old Venetian facades, and quiet little courtyards once the daytime crowds have cleared out.
After dinner, we took our time exploring the maze of side streets, soaking up the atmosphere, and peeking into boutiques that stayed open late. For a relaxed nightcap, Eraldicon is a cozy little spot with great drinks and warm lighting—perfect for winding down after a full day.
If you’ve got more of a sweet tooth, skip the drinks and stop by Loretto Gelato instead. Their flavors rotate often, but whatever you choose, it’s made fresh and seriously delicious. Whether you go for drinks, dessert, or just a peaceful stroll, Old Town at night is not to be missed. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your second day in Corfu!
Day 3
Morning – Tour the famous Governor Olive Mill
Corfu is famous for sunshine, beaches, and history, but what really surprised us was just how exceptional the olive oil is. To dive into the island’s culinary side, we spent the morning on this guided tour of the Governor Olive Mill, one of the most acclaimed olive oil estates in all of Greece. Trust us—this was no ordinary tasting!
The tour starts at 10:30 am with hotel pickup included, making it super easy to roll into the day without stress. Once we arrived, we were greeted by our guide, Maria, who led us on a walk through the ancient groves. Some of these olive trees are centuries old, and learning how they’re cared for—and even getting to help with the harvesting—was such a cool hands-on experience.
From there, we stepped inside the mill for a guided tasting lesson that totally changed how we think about olive oil. We learned how to recognize true quality, and now I will never look at grocery store olive oil the same way again.
The tour wrapped up with a casual tasting featuring the estate’s award-winning oils, fresh tomatoes, feta, and handmade crackers. We ended the afternoon full, happy, and maybe a little spoiled for life!
If you’re looking for a unique, hands-on experience beyond the beach, this tour is a must. It was a refreshing change of pace, and easily one of the tastiest parts of our entire trip. But it’s super popular and often sells out, so we recommend booking in advance to lock it in!
Grab your spot on this delicious tour here before it sells out!
Dinner/evening – Old Town food tour
One of the trickiest parts of visiting a new place? Figuring out where to eat without falling into a tourist trap. That’s exactly why we booked this walking food tour through Corfu’s Old Town, and it ended up being one of the tastiest and most authentic experiences of our trip.
Booking the 6 pm option gave us plenty of time to unwind after the olive oil tour, which got back around 3 pm. With a few hours of downtime, we had enough room for a whole evening of food, culture, and storytelling. Just keep in mind that this tour doesn’t run on Sundays, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Our guide, Ariti, was warm, enthusiastic, and shared fascinating stories about Corfu’s culinary traditions and history as we made our way through the charming streets of Old Town.
Along the way, we stopped at a variety of family-run tavernas, cozy cafés, and specialty shops, sampling everything from freshly baked koulouri to strong Greek coffee, with another round of olive oil tastings, of course. Each stop offered something new and delicious, and it all felt refreshingly local.
Toward the end, we sat down to enjoy pastitsada, a rich, Corfiot-style braised meat pasta dish, and it was comforting, flavorful, and hands-down our favorite meal of the day.
The portions were generous, the company was lovely, and the whole experience felt like a relaxed, delicious stroll through the island’s culture. If you want to eat like a local and experience the island through its flavors, this is the way to do it!
Grab your spot on this top-rated food tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 4
Breakfast – Tango Cafe
You might’ve gotten a quick taste of Paleokastritsa on day one, but today it’s time to give Corfu’s stunning west coast the attention it deserves. If you’re staying near Corfu Town, skip the usual hotel breakfast and head out early. It’s about a 30-minute drive across the island, and the views along the way are worth it.
Once you arrive, make your first stop at Tango Café, a laid-back spot just above the beach with gorgeous sea views. This place is perfect for easing into your day with strong Greek coffee, fresh juice, and light breakfast options like croissants, eggs, and yogurt with honey. It’s casual, quick, and a great way to fuel up before a full day of exploring the coastline.
Morning – Explore Paleokastritsa
With breakfast behind you, it’s time to soak up all that Paleokastritsa has to offer. This area is one of the most scenic parts of Corfu, and whether you’re into history, wildlife, or sweeping coastal views, there’s something here for you.
Here are a few must-see stops to choose from:
- Paleokastritsa Monastery – Just a 10–15 minute walk from Agios Spiridon, this historic monastery sits high on the cliffs and offers some of the best views in the area. Inside, you’ll find peaceful courtyards, beautiful religious artifacts, and a sense of calm that makes it worth the uphill walk.
- Corfu Aquarium – A great choice for wildlife lovers or families, this compact aquarium is packed with local marine life, reptiles, and interesting exhibits. It’s an easy, low-effort stop that gives you a closer look at what’s swimming just offshore.
- Angelokastro – Perched on a rugged cliff, these 7th-century Byzantine castle ruins are steeped in history and offer jaw-dropping panoramic views. It takes a bit of climbing over uneven ground to reach the top, but the scenery—and the breeze—make the effort totally worth it.
- Lakones Village – Just a 15-minute drive up the mountain, Lakones feels like stepping into a different era. It’s a quiet, traditional village with sweeping views from the Bella Vista viewpoint, plus a few charming shops to poke around in.
- Monastret – Once you’ve explored to your heart’s content, stop for lunch at Monastret. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the clifftop views and Mediterranean dishes make it well worth it, especially if you can grab a table outside. Make a reservation here to snag one of the best spots!
Afternoon – Hit the beach or go paragliding
After a morning of exploring Paleokastritsa and a scenic lunch at Monastret, you’ve got a choice to make—spend the afternoon relaxing on one of Corfu’s stunning west coast beaches, or kick things up a notch with an adrenaline-pumping paragliding tour. Either way, you’ll get unforgettable views of this part of the island.
Option 1: Beach
Corfu’s west coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, and arguably, in all of Greece. While some of these are a bit of a drive, they’re absolutely worth the effort if you’re craving soft sand, clear water, and jaw-dropping scenery.
- Agios Spiridon Beach – If you’re looking for something close, this beach is just a short walk from central Paleokastritsa. With calm waters and a small sandy stretch, it’s perfect for a quick dip or a laid-back afternoon without having to go far.
- Porto Timoni – This one’s a bit of a trek. You’ll need to hike down from the village of Afionas, but the dual coves and crystal-clear water make it one of the most photogenic beaches on the island. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for the hike. It’s worth it!
- Rovinia Beach – Hidden in a lush cove, Rovinia is one of Corfu’s quieter, more off-the-beaten-path beaches. A short hike is required to reach it, but you’ll be rewarded with turquoise water, white rocks, and a peaceful vibe that feels like a true escape.
- Glyfada Beach – About a 30-minute drive south of Paleokastritsa, Glyfada is a larger, more developed beach with sunbeds, beach bars, and soft golden sand. It’s ideal if you’re craving something a bit livelier but still scenic.
- Agios Georgios Beach – Located about 40 minutes north of Paleokastritsa, this wide, crescent-shaped beach is known for calm waters and a more local feel. It’s great for swimming and perfect if you want to get away from the more tourist-heavy spots.
Option 2: Paragliding
If you’ve had your fill of beach time and want to do something a little more adventurous, this paragliding experience over Corfu’s west coast is the way to go. It’s thrilling, scenic, and surprisingly peaceful—the perfect mix of adrenaline and awe.
Time slots available are 1:30, 2:30, and 3 pm, and we recommend booking in advance to snag your preferred time. The launch site is about a 17-minute drive from downtown Paleokastritsa, so give yourself plenty of time to get there and get prepped. You’ll need around two hours total for the experience.
After a quick safety briefing and gear-up session, we met our instructors and were ready to run—literally! Just a few steps later, we were in the air, gliding effortlessly above the turquoise coastline and golden beaches below. Behind us, Corfu’s lush green hills rolled into the horizon, making it hard to know where to look first.
The actual flight lasts around 10–15 minutes, depending on the wind, and it’s more peaceful than we expected, like floating with incredible views. Landing was smooth, and honestly, we were both on such a high that we couldn’t stop smiling!
Paragliding in Corfu isn’t just a thrill—it’s a totally unique way to see the island from above and an epic adventure you won’t ever forget. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just curious to try something new, this is the kind of experience that leaves you buzzing long after your feet touch the ground.
Check availability and secure your paragliding flight here!
Alternate option: Half-day beach tour to Paleokastritsa and Glyfada
Want to visit Corfu’s iconic beaches without having to figure out the driving or logistics? This private beach-hopping tour is a great option, especially if you’re craving a low-effort, high-reward kind of afternoon.
Instead of planning the route yourself, your driver picks you up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and takes you straight to two of the island’s most beautiful beach spots.
The first stop is Paleokastritsa Beach, where you’ll have time to explore the dramatic coastline, visit the hilltop 13th-century monastery, or simply go for a refreshing swim in the turquoise water—floating between the cliffs felt like swimming inside a postcard.
Next, you’ll head to Glyfada Beach, a golden-sand stretch with a more lively atmosphere. This is the place to unwind on a sunbed, grab a drink from a beach bar, or just soak in the laid-back vibes. The contrast between the lush, rugged setting of Paleokastritsa and the sunny, social feel of Glyfada made the day feel well-rounded and relaxed.
If you don’t want to navigate on your own, this guided half-day tour takes care of all the planning for you, and still gives you the flexibility to enjoy the beaches at your own pace. It’s a popular option, so we recommend booking in advance to make sure you don’t miss out, especially during the summer months.
Book the private beach tour here and enjoy Corfu’s coastline stress-free!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Fegaropetra Seafood
You can stick around the west coast for sunset and dinner if you’re up for it, but we decided to head back toward Corfu Town before dark. The roads out west are narrow and winding, and we weren’t too keen on navigating them at night—yet another reason why a guided tour can be a great choice for beach days.
Instead of heading back into the busy heart of Old Town, we went just a little outside the center to Fegaropetra Seafood, which turned out to be a total win. It’s less than a 10-minute drive from Old Town, with fresh seafood, great prices, and a more relaxed, local vibe.
We loved the grilled fish, the fried calamari, and the quiet setting, especially after a day of beach-hopping or paragliding. If you’re looking for something casual and delicious without the crowds, this place is well worth the short detour.
Day 5
Full day island hopping to Paxos and Antipaxos
Island hopping is a must while you’re in Greece, and this full-day cruise made it incredibly easy and fun. From glowing sea caves to ridiculously clear water, it was one of the most scenic days of our trip.
Important note: This tour only runs on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, so be sure to plan accordingly if you want to fit it in!
We booked the hotel transfers, which made the early start easy—boarding begins at 7:40 am, and the boat departs at 8:25 am sharp. Be sure to grab a quick hotel breakfast before heading out, as there’s no proper meal stop until later.
The first stop was the Blue Caves of Paxos, where the cliffs tower over almost glowing blue water. It looks like something straight out of a travel magazine! Next, we headed to Voutoumi Beach on Antipaxos, where the sea is so clear it looks like the boats are floating. We swam, lounged, and soaked it all in.
Our final stop was Gaios, the charming main village on Paxos, where we wandered the cobbled streets, browsed local shops, and grabbed a bite to eat by the harbor before cruising back to Corfu.
The cruise lasted around 10 hours, but it flew by. The crew was fantastic, there was a cash bar on board, and the DJ kept things upbeat without being over the top. Whether you want to swim, sightsee, or just relax on deck, this tour is a highlight!
Book this island-hopping tour here before it sells out!
Dinner – Elia
After a full day out on the water, we were more than ready for a relaxed evening, and Elia hit the spot. Just a short walk from the heart of Corfu Town, this laid-back taverna served up classic Greek dishes in a cozy, unpretentious setting. We grabbed a table on the outdoor terrace, which was quiet, breezy, and perfect for winding down.
We kept things simple with a few favorites: grilled meats, fresh village salad, and a side of tzatziki we ended up scraping clean. The lamb chops were especially tender, and the drinks were surprisingly good for the price. We stayed a while, enjoying the laid-back rhythm that matched the mellow evening vibes.
Evening – Toast to your trip!
To end our last full day in Corfu, we headed to Arthaus Cafe Wine Bar for one final toast, and it couldn’t have been a better choice. This cozy little spot has a creative vibe, friendly service, and a great selection of local Greek wines, including a few from Corfu itself.
We sipped slowly, recapped our favorite moments from the trip, and soaked in the easy-going atmosphere. Whether you’re a wine lover or just want a chill place to unwind, Arthaus is the perfect place to raise a glass to your time on the island.
Where to Stay in Corfu
Corfu is an incredible island with plenty of great places to stay, no matter your budget or travel style. Whether you’re after luxury, comfort, or something more affordable, you’ll find the perfect spot to call home while exploring this stunning destination.
To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in Corfu, so you can spend less time searching and more time soaking up everything this beautiful island has to offer!
New York Luxury Suites – $$$
Set in a restored neoclassical building, New York Luxury Suites is a 5-star boutique hotel in Corfu’s Old Town, just steps from the Liston Promenade. The hotel’s stylish suites blend historic charm with modern elegance, featuring high-end furnishings and city views. With a prime location and refined atmosphere, it’s an ideal base for exploring Corfu in style.
Prices range from €250 – €400 per night, depending on the season and suite. Check availability and book on Booking.com!
Arcadion Hotel – $$
Arcadion Hotel is a fantastic mid-range option in the heart of Corfu Town, offering a stylish and comfortable stay. Overlooking the iconic Spianada Square and just a short walk from Corfu’s Old Town, it’s an ideal base for exploring the island’s history and culture. The hotel features elegant, well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, a cozy lounge, and a breakfast area serving a delicious morning spread with local flavors. Some rooms even offer stunning views of the Old Fortress!
Prices range from around €100 – €150 per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Joseph Apartment – $
For budget-friendly accommodation in Corfu, Joseph Apartment is a great choice! This cozy and well-appointed apartment offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a private balcony. Located in a quiet area yet close to local attractions, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful retreat while staying within budget. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property, making it a convenient option for both short and extended stays.
Rates start at around €60 per night. Visit Booking.com to check availability and make your reservation!
For more options, see all of Corfu’s hotels listed here!
Related Read: If you need recommendations on the best areas and hotels in Corfu, check out our guide on Where to Stay in Corfu here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
If you’re looking for stunning beaches, historic towns, and a truly relaxing Greek getaway, Corfu will deliver! We loved our time here and are already looking forward to the next visit. This is the same itinerary we followed, and it truly shows the best of Corfu!
Before you go, check out our other Greece blogs. We have tons of resources to help you plan an epic holiday, no matter where your travels take you! Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next adventure:
10 Best Things to do in Corfu, Greece